USPS® has 'streamlined infrastructure'

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has streamlined both its mail processing and transportation infrastructure in its development over the past five years, according to a report by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

While the USPS network has indeed made progress in these areas, the report stated that the service still faces "many challenges in planning, developing and implementing rationalization initiatives".

The group was also advised to work towards minimizing costs and inefficiencies in the wake of the recently ended economic downturn in the US.

Commenting on a proposed plan of action, the OIG said: "The Postal Service must [continue to] effectively streamline the mail processing and transportation network and optimize the workforce.

"Management, congress, unions, and stakeholders must work together during this period of rapid change to ensure network rationalization initiatives have the energy needed to be successful in spite of challenges."

Despite rumors that the service's mail volumes were heavily deteriorating, USPS estimated that it handled in excess of 16 billion letters and packages over the festive season.